Kefir for dogs: Importance of Probiotics for our pets

Kefir for dogs, Importance of Probiotics

Kefir is a fermented probiotic beverage that is traditionally made from cow’s milk. It can also be made from goat’s milk or even coconut water. The benefits of kefir are they full of live beneficial bacteria and yeast cultures that are crucial for a dog’s gut health.

Dogs can benefit from drinking kefir! The probiotics in kefir can help with digestion, relieve allergies, and boost immunity. It’s important to make sure that the kefir you give your dog is plain and unsweetened, as sugar can be harmful to dogs. You can find plain, unsweetened kefir at most health food stores.

Is it best to talk to a veterinarian before giving kefir to your dog?

Yes, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any new food or supplement, including kefir. This is because every dog is different and may have specific dietary needs. For example, some dogs may be lactose intolerant and therefore unable to digest cow’s milk-based kefir. In this case, goat’s milk kefir or coconut water kefir would be a better option. Probiotics can also be given to dogs in the form of supplements, which may be a better option for some dogs. Again, it’s important to speak with a veterinarian before giving your dog probiotics in any form.

What is a probiotic?

Natural probiotics are live microorganisms (usually bacteria) that are similar to the good bacteria that naturally live in your gut. Probiotics are often called “friendly” or “beneficial” bacteria because they help produce good digestive health for a optimum dog gut health.

There are many different types of probiotics, and they can be found in various foods, supplements, and even some skincare products. The two most common types of natural probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

Lactobacillus is the most common type of probiotic, and it can be found in yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, kefir, and some dietary supplements

5 Benefits of your dog consuming kefir:

1. Helps with digestion

The probiotics in kefir help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can help to relieve digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.

2. Relieves allergies

Kefir can help to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. This can be helpful for dogs that suffer from allergies.

3. Boosts immunity

The probiotics in kefir help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. This can help to prevent your dog from getting sick, and also help them recover more quickly if they do become ill.

4. Improves skin and coat health

The probiotics and fatty acids in kefir help to nourish the skin and coat. This can help to relieve dryness, itchiness, hot spots and other skin problems.

5. Reduces joint pain

The anti-inflammatory properties of kefir can help to reduce joint pain and stiffness. This can be beneficial for dogs that suffer from arthritis or other joint problems.

Can my dog have yogurt instead of feeding kefir for probiotics?

Yes, your dog can have yogurt instead of kefir for probiotics. However, it’s important to choose a plain, unsweetened yogurt that does not contain any artificial sweeteners. These can be harmful to dogs. You can find plain, unsweetened yogurt at most health food stores.

Kombucha is a probiotic, can my dog eat a scoby?

No, dogs should not eat kombucha scoby’s. The scoby is a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (also known as a “mother”) that is used to ferment the tea. While the fermented tea can be beneficial for dogs, the scoby itself is not safe for them to consume.

Are there dog foods that add probiotic supplements to their food?

Yes, there are a number of dog foods that add probiotics to their food. Probiotic-rich dog foods can help to improve digestion, boost immunity, and relieve allergies. You can find probiotic dog foods at most pet stores.

When shopping for probiotic dog food, it’s important to choose high-quality food that is made with real ingredients. Avoid any foods that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.

Can kefir help my dog’s hot spots on his skin?

Kefir can help to improve skin and coat health, which may help to reduce the occurrence of hot spots. The probiotics in kefir can also help to boost immunity, which may help to prevent infections that can cause hot spots. If your dog is suffering from hot spots, it’s important to seek veterinary care as well.

Will kefir help my dog from itching?

It is possible that kefir may help to reduce itchiness in dogs, as it can improve skin and coat health. The probiotics in kefir can also help to boost immunity, which may help to prevent infections that can cause itching. If your dog is suffering from excessive itching, it’s important to seek veterinary care as well.

3 things to remember when feeding your dog kefir:

1. Make sure the kefir you feed your dog is plain and unsweetened.

2. Start with a small amount of kefir and increase gradually over time.

3. Seek veterinary care if your dog is suffering from any health problems.

Where can I buy kefir for my dog?

You can find plain, unsweetened kefir at most health food stores. You can also purchase it online.

 

How to make kefir for your dog:

If you’re interested in making your own kefir for your dog, it’s actually quite easy! All you need is milk (cow, goat, or coconut), kefir grains, and a little bit of time. The kefir grains will ferment the milk and turn it into kefir. You can find kefir grains online or at some health food stores.

 

 

To make kefir with cow milk:

1. Heat milk to body temperature (around 100 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Add kefir grains and stir gently.

3. Cover and let sit for 12-24 hours (best stored in a glass jar).

4. Strain out the kefir grains and enjoy!

How to make kefir with goat milk:

1. Heat milk to body temperature (around 100 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Add kefir grains and stir gently.

3. Cover and let sit for 12-24 hours (best stored in a glass jar).

4. strain out the kefir grains and enjoy!

To make kefir with coconut water:

1. Combine coconut water and kefir grains in a jar or other container.

2. Cover and let sit for 12-24 hours (best stored in a glass jar).

3. strain out the kefir grains and enjoy!

What is the difference between using cow milk or goat milk?

There is no significant difference between using cow milk or goat milk in kefir for dogs. Both types of dairy milk will provide the same health benefits for your dog. However, some dogs may prefer the taste of one type of dairy milk over the other. You can experiment to see which your dog prefers.

How long can you store kefir in the fridge?

You can store kefir in the fridge for up to two weeks. However, it’s best to consume it within a week for maximum freshness and benefits.

How much kefir should my dog eat and how often?

The amount of kefir you give your dog will depend on their size and weight. It’s always best to start with a small amount and increase gradually over time. You can give your dog kefir once or twice a day. If you’re not sure how much to give, always consult with your veterinarian first.

Research on Kefir for dogs:

1. “Influence of Lacobacillus kefiri on Intestinal Microbiota and Fecal IgA Content of Healthy” National Library of Medicine, Frontiers in Veterinary Science  

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7142251/   PMCID: PMC7142251

2. “Microbiota and probiotics in canine and feline welfare” National Library of Medicine www.pubmed.gov

• PMCID: PMC7111060

4.”Murad HM, Malik ZJ, Umayra AN. Evaluation the skin regeneration by using Kefir production in local dogs.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research. 2018 Oct 1;10(10):2653-8.

https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/evaluation-skin-regeneration-using-kefir/docview/2135499300/se-2